High Point University (HPU) is now accepting applications for a wide range of scholarships and grants to support undergraduate students pursuing higher education. For the 2026 academic year, HPU continues its commitment to making education accessible and affordable for students who demonstrate excellence in academics, leadership, athletics, and performing arts. The best part is that by simply applying for admission, students may qualify for many awards without submitting a separate scholarship application.
In this guide, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the available financial aid options, study levels, eligibility criteria, and a step-by-step guide on how to apply.
About High Point University Scholarships
High Point University (HPU), established in 1924, is a private liberal arts institution located in High Point, North Carolina, United States. Renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and student success, HPU offers a wide range of scholarships and grants to support undergraduate students in their pursuit of higher education. Over the years, the university has produced more than 33,000 successful alumni who proudly credit HPU for their growth and achievements, making significant contributions to society and reflecting the enduring impact of the institution.
Study Level
The High Point University scholarships mainly support undergraduate students pursuing bachelor’s degrees. Most awards target freshmen, but programs like Honors, Fellows, Bonner Leaders, ROTC, and performing arts scholarships are open to continuing students as well.
Fields of Study Covered
HPU offers scholarships across a wide range of courses, ensuring financial support for students regardless of their major. Some awards are discipline-specific, targeting areas where students demonstrate exceptional talent or leadership:
- General Scholarships: Merit-based, Presidential, Honors, and Athletic awards are open to students in any major.
- Fellows Scholarships: Focused on students pursuing Business, Health Sciences, Natural Sciences, Leadership, and Creative Arts.
- Arts and Performance Scholarships: Available for students majoring in Music, Theatre, and Dance, rewarding outstanding creative abilities.
- Band Participation Awards: Scholarships like the Marching Panther recognize involvement in the university’s marching band, regardless of major.
- Military Programs: ROTC scholarships provide support to students of any field who commit to military training and service.
Nationality Requirement
- U.S. Students: Eligible for nearly all scholarship programs, including ROTC, Bonner Leader, First-Generation, and other federally or locally funded awards.
- International Students: Can apply for merit-based scholarships, the fellows program, Honors, Performing Arts, Marching Band, and athletic awards.
- Restrictions: Certain scholarships tied to federal or state funding, such as ROTC and need-based programs, are reserved for U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
Scholarship Benefits
Here are the financial and academic advantages students enjoy when awarded High Point University scholarships:
- Merit & Presidential Scholarships: Awards range from $5,000 up to full tuition, recognizing academic excellence and leadership.
- Honors Scholars Program: Provides $3,000 per year, renewable and stackable with other awards.
- Fellows Scholarships: Discipline-specific awards of $3,000 per year, designed for students excelling in fields like Business, Health Sciences, STEM, and Creative Arts.
- Scout Awards: $1,000 per year for Eagle Scouts or Gold Award recipients.
- Performing Arts Scholarships: Awards between $500 and $2,000 per year, based on auditions and demonstrated talent.
- Marching Panther Scholarships: $5,000 per year for students participating in the university’s marching band.
- Athletic Scholarships: Varying amounts, with potential for full tuition, in compliance with NCAA Division I regulations.
- ROTC Scholarships: Offer full tuition, books, and a monthly stipend, along with military training opportunities.
- Bonner Leader Program: Combines financial support with leadership development and service opportunities.
- State-Based Need Programs (shift_ed & First Generation): Awards up to full tuition for eligible North Carolina students demonstrating financial need.
Eligibility Criteria
Students can qualify for High Point University scholarships by demonstrating excellence in one or more of the following areas.
- Undergraduate Status: Applicants must be admitted as first-year or transfer undergraduate students. Some scholarships also allow continuing students to apply internally.
- Academic Excellence: Most merit-based scholarships require a strong high school GPA, completion of a rigorous course load, and may consider SAT/ACT scores to enhance eligibility.
- Leadership and Community Engagement: Scholarships prioritize students with proven leadership experience, such as involvement in school, community, or volunteer projects.
- Talent and Special Achievements: Awards are available for students with exceptional abilities in performing arts (music, theatre, dance, band) or athletics. Some programs also recognize distinct achievements, such as Eagle Scout or Gold Award honors.
- Service and Need-Based Programs: Certain scholarships, including Bonner Leaders, shift_ed, and First Generation Scholarships, require a commitment to service along with evidence of financial need.
- ROTC Scholarships: Reserved for U.S. citizens who meet the academic, medical, and service requirements for Army or Air Force ROTC programs.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Start by submitting your admission application through the Common App or HPU’s portal, which automatically puts you in consideration for most merit-based scholarships.
- For need-based awards like shift_ed, First Generation, or Bonner Leaders, make sure to complete the FAFSA and provide any required supporting documents.
- Some programs require essays or supplemental applications, such as the Fellows and Honors Programs, which are submitted online through PantherPage.
- Talent-based awards, including Performing Arts and Marching Band scholarships, involve auditions or interviews to showcase your skills. Athletic scholarships depend on evaluations by HPU coaches, and ROTC scholarships require applications through Army or Air Force ROTC alongside HPU admission.
- Remember that most scholarships are renewable each year as long as you maintain the required GPA, participate in program activities, and stay in good standing.
- Keep track of deadlines, especially the Early Action priority date of November 15, 2025, to ensure your application is considered for all scholarship opportunities.
Start your application here – High Point University Scholarships & Grants
Key Dates to Keep in Mind
The Early Action priority deadline is November 15, 2025, and if you apply by this date, you get priority consideration for merit-based scholarships.
The regular admission deadline is January 15, 2026, which gives you standard consideration for admission and scholarships.
For need-based financial aid programs, try to submit your FAFSA as early as possible and ideally by January 15, 2026, so you don’t miss out on any opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What scholarships does High Point University offer?
HPU offers merit-based, talent-based, need-based, and program-specific scholarships, including Presidential, Honors, Fellows, Performing Arts, Athletic, ROTC, and First Generation awards. - Who is eligible for HPU scholarships?
Eligibility varies by award but generally includes strong academics, leadership, talent, and, for some programs, U.S. citizenship or residency. - Do I need to submit a separate scholarship application?
No, your admission application also serves as your scholarship application, so you don’t need to apply separately for most awards. - What are the key deadlines for HPU scholarships?
Early Action priority is November 15, 2025; regular admission is January 15, 2026; and FAFSA should be submitted as early as possible, ideally by January 15, 2026. - Are HPU scholarships renewable?
Yes, most scholarships are renewable annually if students maintain the required GPA, program participation, and good standing. - Can international students apply for scholarships?
Yes, international students are eligible for most merit-based scholarships, but need-based awards like First Generation or shift_ed are limited to U.S. citizens or residents.
Final Thoughts
High Point University scholarships go beyond covering tuition; they create opportunities for leadership, service, talent, and academic growth. From merit and Presidential awards to Fellows, performing arts, athletics, and ROTC, motivated students have multiple ways to thrive in 2026. By understanding eligibility requirements, submitting materials on time, and keeping track of key deadlines, you can maximize your chances of earning an award and making the most of your HPU experience.